Method for querying a specification feature of a medical technical functional means, a medical technical functional means, a medical device and a control unit

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to a method for querying a specification feature arranged in, at or on a medical technical functional means, the method comprising the step of: querying the specification feature by means of a medical device functionally coupled to or to be coupled to the medical technical functional means or by means of a device or means connected to or being arranged in signal transmission with the medical technical treatment apparatus. The invention further relates to a medical technical functional means, a medical device and a control unit. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a digital storage medium, a computer program product and a computer program.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of,co-pending U.S. Provisional Application 61/433,533 filed on Jan. 18,2011. The contents of this provisional application is incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety. The present application also claimspriory to, and the benefit of, German Patent Application DE 10 2011 008856.3 filed on Jan. 18, 2011. The contents of this foreign applicationis incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a method for querying a specificationfeature arranged in, at or on a medical technical functional means. Theinvention further relates to a medical technical functional means, amedical device and a control unit. Furthermore, the present inventionrelates to a digital storage medium, a computer program product and acomputer program.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Medical technical functional means are regularly suitable for being usedin certain treatments. This suitability can be identified by means of aspecification feature located on the functional means.

One object of the present invention is to provide a method by means ofwhich safety may be enhanced in that, in performing a treatment using amedical technical treatment apparatus, a medical technical functionalmeans is used which is actually apt therefor and not a functional meanswhich is not apt or not sufficiently compatible. Furthermore, a medicaltechnical functional means usable for this purpose, a suitable medicaltechnical treatment apparatus, a suitable control unit, a suitabledigital storage medium, a suitable computer program product and asuitable computer program are included herein.

All advantages obtainable by means of the method according to theinvention may in certain embodiments according to the inventionundiminishedly also be achieved by means of the medical technicalfunctional means according to the invention and/or by means of themedical device according to the invention and/or by means of the controlunit according to the invention. In some embodiments according to theinvention, this also applies for the digital storage medium according tothe invention, the computer program product according to the inventionand the computer program according to the invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The method according to the invention is suited and provided or intendedfor querying a specification feature arranged in, at or on a medicaltechnical functional means. The method comprises querying thespecification feature by means of a medical device functionally coupledto or to be coupled to the medical technical functional means or bymeans of a device or means being arranged in signal transmission withthe medical technical treatment apparatus.

The medical technical functional means according to the invention (inthe following also shortly referred to as: functional means) comprisesat least one specification feature marking or identifying at least one,particularly specific or precise or concrete medical technical functionor suitability of the medical technical functional means. Thereby, thespecification features is arranged in, at or on the medical technicalfunctional means and is provided or intended, suited and/or configuredto be queried by means of a medical device functionally coupled to or tobe coupled to the medical technical functional means or by means of adevice or means being arranged in signal transmission with the medicaltechnical treatment apparatus.

The medical device according to the invention (hereafter referred to as:treatment apparatus) comprises at least one detection device and/or isconnected to one such detection device or is arranged in signaltransmission relation with one such detection device. The detectiondevice is suited or apt, provided or intended and/or configured fordetecting the at least one specification feature marking or identifyingat least one function of the medical technical functional means.

The control unit according to the invention is suited or apt andprovided or intended and/or embodied or designed and/or configured forperforming the method according to the invention.

A digital storage medium according to the invention, in particular inform of a disc, a CD or a DVD, comprising electronically readablecontrol signals may interact with a programmable computer system such asto prompt the execution of the technical steps of a method according tothe invention.

Thereby, the execution of all, a few or some of the technical steps ofthe method according to the invention may be prompted.

A computer program product according to the invention comprises aprogram code stored in a machine readable storage medium for promptingthe execution of the technical steps of the method according to theinvention when executing the computer program product on a computer.

The term “machine readable storage medium” as used herein in certainembodiments of the present invention refers to a storage mediumcomprising data interpretable by means of software and/or hardware. Thestorage medium may be a data medium such as a disc, a CD, DVD, a USBflash drive, a flash card, a SD card, and the like.

A computer program according to the invention comprises a program codefor prompting the execution of the technical steps of a method accordingto the invention when executing the computer program on a computer.

For the computer program product according to the invention and for thecomputer program according to the invention it applies as well that theexecution of all, a few or some of the technical steps of the methodaccording to the invention are prompted.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a flow chart of a method according to the invention.

FIG. 2 schematically shows a signal transmission connection between atreatment apparatus according to the invention, a detection device and afunctional means.

FIG. 3 perspectively shows components of a detection device.

FIG. 4 shows a front view of an exemplary specification feature.

FIG. 5A shows a configuration of the detection device at a treatmentapparatus according to the invention.

FIG. 5B shows a treatment apparatus according to the inventioncomprising a functional means arranged thereon.

FIG. 6 shows a basic principle of the arrangement and the functionalityof the detection device.

FIG. 7 schematically shows an arrangement of a functional means forperforming a blood treatment comprising the addition of citrate andcalcium (yellow cassette label).

FIG. 8 schematically shows an arrangement of a functional means forperforming a blood treatment comprising the addition of heparin (bluecassette label).

FIG. 9 schematically shows a tubing set comprising a heparin additionsite.

FIG. 10 schematically shows a diagram of an arrangement for performing ablood treatment comprising the addition of heparin.

FIG. 11 schematically shows a tubing set comprising calcium and citrateaddition sites.

FIG. 12 schematically shows a diagram of an arrangement for performing ablood treatment comprising the addition of calcium and citrate.

FIG. 13 schematically shows a supply line for a heparin treatment.

FIG. 14 schematically shows a supply line for a calcium and citratetreatment.

FIG. 15 schematically shows a return line for a calcium and citratetreatment.

FIG. 16A schematically shows a first type of cassette comprisingcomponents of a calcium-citrate tubing set.

FIG. 16B schematically shows a second type of cassette not comprisingany components of a citrate-calcium tubing set.

FIG. 17 schematically shows a machine front of a treatment apparatusaccording to the invention.

FIG. 18 schematically shows a possibility of positioning a functionalmeans at the treatment apparatus.

FIG. 19 schematically shows the insertion of pump segments of afunctional means at the treatment apparatus.

FIG. 20 schematically shows the insertion of drip chambers of afunctional means at the treatment apparatus.

FIG. 21 schematically shows the detection of the specification featureof the functional means by means of the treatment apparatus according tothe invention or by means of the detection device thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments according to the invention may comprise a few, some or allof the following features in any arbitrary combination thereof andtherewith.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, “querying” refers toascertaining or determining and/or obtaining and/or gaining or gatheringevidence and/or information or data or a statement, or the like about orwith respect to the specification feature.

In some embodiments, such evidence, information or data or statementsrefer to the presence or, however, the non-application or absence of thespecification feature itself, or of a certain state, a certain feature,or a certain design or embodiment, or the like, of the specificationfeature.

In some embodiments, such evidence, information or data or statementsrefer to a specific or certain, predetermined, defined, desired and/orrequired quality, quantity, characteristic or specification and/orproperty, and the like of the specification feature.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, the specificationfeature marks or identifies or characterizes a function or a suitabilityfor an application or use (or several functions or suitability fordifferent uses as well) of the functional means. In those embodiments,querying the specification feature refers to querying of the at leastone function or suitability of the functional means.

In certain embodiments, the specification feature is suited or apt,provided or intended and/or configured for being detected or queriedabout its information concerning the specifying function (or functions)of the functional means by means of the treatment apparatus or by meansof a device or means, being arranged or connected in signal transmissionwith the treatment apparatus. The treatment apparatus may specificallybe prepared or configured for being able to detect or query thespecification feature in its concrete design or embodiment.

The terms function and suitability are in certain embodiments to beunderstood to be identical and/or interchangeable.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, a function orsuitability of a medical technical functional means refers to theability or capability of the medical technical functional means to beable to perform a certain operation, process or procedure, and the like,in particularly in the course of or in association with a medicaltreatment, or to be able to offer a certain usability or benefit.

In certain embodiments, the medical technical functional means isconstructed and/or provided or intended and/or designed or embodied forperforming a certain operation, process, procedure, etc.

The term “functionally coupling” or “functionally coupled” as usedherein in certain embodiments of the present invention refers to thegeneration or establishment of an operative connection between elements.Without being limited to the operative connections mentioned below,examples of appropriate operative connections include electrical,electronic, mechanical, pneumatic, magnetic, inductive, optical,flow-relevant, and the like, connections.

In certain embodiments, a functional coupling of the functional meanswith the treatment apparatus refers to an arrangement of the functionalmeans and of the treatment apparatus such that the treatment apparatuswould not be able to perform certain or essential treatment options whenlacking such a functional connection.

A device or means connected with the treatment apparatus in signaltransmission is, in certain embodiments of the present invention,arranged in signal transmission communication (using physical contact orin a contactless manner) with the treatment apparatus.

The signal used for this may be radio signals, infrared signals, signalusing blue tooth, radio waves, electric signal, and the like. Theseexamples are in no way to be understood as limitations.

In certain embodiments, a signal refers to transmitted information aboutthe specification features having been queried, or implies or allowsconclusions about it.

Thereby, the signal may be any appropriate kind or type of signal suchas an analogue signal, a digital signal, and the like, combinations,mixtures, etc.

Querying the specification feature by means of the treatment apparatusor by means of a device connected in signal transmission with the latteris, in certain embodiments, performed by means of a control unit, a CPU,or the like of the treatment apparatus.

In certain embodiments according to the invention, the specificationfeature is designed or embodied as an identification mark or labeland/or comprises at least one identification mark or label or a tag.

Merely exemplarily and in a non-limiting way, examples of appropriateidentification marks or labels include dielectric media, metallicobjects, conductors, permanent magnets, oscillating circuits, supportsor top frames or protrusions or recesses or grooves, apertures/optics,reflecting and/or light-absorbing and/or light-scattering objects,colored objects, barcodes/patterns, polarizing objects, damping orabsorbing objects or oscillation enhancing objects.

In certain embodiments, the specification feature is designed orembodied as a barcode, a dot matrix code, an RFID chip or a color label.

Arbitrary combinations of the identification marks or labels mentionedherein and/or further appropriate labels or identification marks areencompassed by the present invention as well.

The specification feature may be connected releasably or alsounreleasably, in particular unreleasably during the coupling procedureof the functional means and the treatment apparatus and/or during thequerying procedure of the specification feature, to the functional meansor attached in, at or on the functional means.

In certain embodiments, the specification feature is provided orintended for being fixed or attached to or at the functional means bymeans of sticking, printing, covering, dying, staining, engaging,snapping or clipping, and the like or is fixed or attached in such away.

The specification feature may or may not be arranged on a support. Thespecification feature may be arranged or fixed or attached to, on or atthe functional means directly. The specification feature may be part ofthe functional means.

In embodiments in which the specification is or will be fixed orattached in, on or at the functional means by using a support, thesupport may be selected to be transparent or opaque. Otherwise, it maycomprise an underground having colors differing from the colors of thefunctional means or elements thereof.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, the specificationfeature is provided or intended for marking or characterizing oridentifying an extracorporeal blood tubing set or a certain or specificdesign or embodiment or applicability of the extracorporeal blood tubingset. Examples of such designs or embodiments or applicabilities of theextracorporeal blood tubing set comprise a design or embodiment orapplicability for certain medical purposes such as a blood treatment,e.g. hemodialysis, hemofiltration or hemodiafiltration, with or withoutusing the addition of substituate liquid and, optionally, the additionof at least one anticoagulant and/or further blood additives, and thelike.

In some embodiments, the method according to the invention comprisesselecting a medical treatment option at the treatment apparatus.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, a treatment optionrefers to a possible treatment (in several cases one possible treatmentout of several different possible treatments), an alternative treatment,a certain treatment process, a course of steps or processes, eachrelating to a treatment, for example, a blood treatment.

In some embodiments of the present invention, “selecting a treatmentoption” refers to determining or ascertaining a specific treatmentoption out of a plurality or multiplicity of different treatment optionsthat can be performed by means of the treatment apparatus.

The selection may be performed manually by inserting or inputting thedesired and/or required treatment option into the treatment apparatus orkeying the treatment option with the help of an input device or means,suited and provided or intended for this purpose, e.g. a keyboard, amouse, a push button, and the like, e.g. by a person having therespective authority and/or qualification.

The selection can be done automatically or automatedly based on orsubsequently after the pre-processing of the treatment hitherto.

Selection may be done before, during or after querying the specificationfeature.

The selectable treatment options may be stored or will be stored in thetreatment apparatus, for example, in a storage medium of the treatmentapparatus.

In certain embodiments, the method according to the invention comprisescontacting and/or connecting the functional means with the treatmentapparatus or with the detection device of the treatment apparatus.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, “contacting” and/or“connecting” refers to spatially arranging or approximating thefunctional means and the treatment apparatus with respect to each other.Both procedures serve to query or facilitate querying the specificationfeature. In contrast to the term “(functionally)” coupling, contactingor connecting the functional means and the treatment apparatus is hereto be understood as a mere approximation, for example, in form ofbringing together or in form of mechanically connecting the twoelements. Establishing a final operative connection is not required forthis purpose, however, it is not to be excluded as well.

In certain embodiments, the spatial arrangement of the functional meansand of the treatment apparatus allows or serves to query thespecification feature by means of the treatment apparatus or by means ofa corresponding device or means making use of the proximity that hasbeen generated.

In certain embodiments, the method according to the inventionencompasses detecting the specification feature by means of thetreatment apparatus or by means of a detection device connected insignal transmission with the treatment apparatus.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, a detection devicerefers to a means or device suited and provided or intended and/ordesigned or embodies for detecting and/or measuring the specificationfeature (or several specification features) of the medical technicalfunctional means.

The detection device is arranged or provided at or on the treatmentapparatus or is built or installed therein. In certain embodiments, thedetection device is a separate element; in other embodiments, thedetection device or a part or section thereof is part of the treatmentapparatus, e.g. part of the treatment apparatus's housing.

In certain embodiments, the detection device is designed or embodiedand/or provided or intended for generating or prompting or inducing oreffecting the measurement signal desired and/or required for detectingand/or measuring the specification feature by itself.

In some embodiments, the detection device is designed or embodied or(physically) connected with or is operatively connected with a signalgeneration device or means suited, provided and/or configured for thispurpose.

Appropriate signal generation devices or means comprise permanentmagnets, oscillators, capacitors, power supply units, heat sources,particle emitters, lasers, light sources such as white light LEDs or RGBLEDs (i.e., red, green and blue light emitting LEDs, LED means: lightemitting diode), IREDs (i.e., infra red emitting diode), further orother light sources, piezoelectric elements, or the like.

Appropriate measurement signals to be detected for detecting ormeasuring the specification feature include optical measurement signalssuch as intensity, frequency (for example, radio frequency), wavelengths, light (such as reflected light), electric measurement signalssuch as voltage, current, resistance, capacity, inductivity, electricfields, magnetic fields, mechanical measurement signals (such as force,pressure, path), magnetic measurement signals (such as magnetic fieldstrength, magnetic field measurement, magnetization), acousticmeasurement signals (such as sound pressure, sound velocity) and/orchemical measurement signals, and the like.

Appropriate detection device include means measuring or detectingoptical or opto-electronic effects, capacitative effects, induction orabsorption, light signals (color sensors or white light sensors),reflection/transmittance, thermal effects, chemical effects, and furthermore.

In some embodiments, the detection device detects an effect, thedetection device has initiated by itself at the functional means or atthe specification feature in order to detect the specification feature;this effect may be a Hall effect, a magnetization, a thermal resistanceeffect/a thermal electrical effect, a piezoelectric/piezoresistiveeffect, a photo effect, a voltage/current change, an inductive effect,or the like.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, the detection device isdesigned or embodied as a hall sensor, a (Reed) relay, avolt/amperemeter, a pressure sensor, an electric switch, a thermaldetector or thermo couple, a photodiode or a photo resistance.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, the detection device isdesigned or embodied as a barcode reader, a scanner, a color sensor suchas a LED sensor, a chip reader, or the like, or as a combinationthereof, or comprises said items.

In certain further embodiments, the method according to the inventioncomprises identifying and/or assigning a function associated with thespecification feature.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, “identifying” or“assigning” refers to perceiving or realizing, analyzing or interpretingor evaluating, and the like, the specification feature having beendetected by means of the detection device; the specification featuredetected will be assigned to a function of the functional meansspecified or given or defined by the specification feature.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, specification featuresare stored in the treatment apparatus or in a device or means arrangedin data transmission therewith, e.g. in a database or a storage mediumof the treatment apparatus or of the device—preferably and/or reasonablytogether with the corresponding functions of the (one or more)functional means that are specified by means of the specificationfeatures.

In certain embodiments, identifying and/or assigning the specificationfeature encompasses comparing the currently detected specificationfeature by means of the specification features that are stored in thetreatment apparatus.

In certain embodiments, the method according to the invention comprisescomparing the selected treatment option that has, e.g. been selected atthe medical device with respect to the concrete treatment by, e.g. usingthe keyboard, with the function or suitability having been identified bymeans of the treatment apparatus by means of the specification featureof the functional means.

In certain embodiments, comparing encompasses checking if the functionof the functional means characterized by the specification feature ofthe functional means conforms to the selected treatment option and/or isat least compatible therewith.

In certain embodiments, comparing includes ascertaining a statement—andpreferably additionally reporting the statement to the person in chargeor the user—about the compatibility of the function of the functionalmeans that has been detected by means of the specification feature ofthe functional means and the treatment option such that a decision aboutusing the functional means in the treatment option or during a treatmentmay be made.

In other embodiments, comparing comprises inhibiting or preventing theperformance of the selected treatment option at the functional meanspresent. In order to inhibit or prevent a performance in case thefunctional means has been detected or classified as being“inappropriate”, a safety function can be provided. Such a safetyfunction can be a power shut-off or a current breaking or somethingsimilar.

In some embodiments, comparing encompasses assessing or evaluating theacceptability and/or reliability of using a certain or specificfunctional means for a certain treatment option or a certain treatment.In certain embodiments, comparing includes ascertaining a suitabilityor—preferably uncritical—usability of the functional means. This may,for example, be effected by a comparison with data stored, e.g. datastored in table form.

The result of a comparison may be “positive” or “negative”, “right” or“wrong”, “correct” or “incorrect”, or the like.

In case of a positive result of the comparison, i.e., generally afterascertaining a conformity or compatibility between the identifiedspecification feature (and thus the function of the functional means)and the selected treatment option, it is in certain embodiments providedto prepare or prompt or effect the subsequent use of the functionalmeans in or at or in connection with the treatment apparatus, e.g. byusing automated safety queries.

In certain embodiments, the method comprises functionally coupling thefunctional means with the treatment apparatus if the treatment optionand the identified function conform to each other or are at leastcompatible with each other.

Functionally coupling may encompass connecting and/or approximating, andthe like, the functional means and the treatment apparatus whilebuilding up or establishing an operative connection such as a mechanicaloperative connection, a connection for the purpose of signaltransmission, an electrical operative connection, and the like. Incertain embodiments, functionally coupling serves to prepare a treatmentby means of the treatment apparatus using the functional means.

In further embodiments, the method according to the invention comprisesstarting defined queries with respect to the correct functional couplingand/or the intermediately obtained usability of the functional means inthe planned treatment.

In some embodiments of the present invention, a “defined query” refersto a query or control of certain operations or procedures associatedwith the use of the functional means or of the treatment apparatus.

In certain embodiments, the defined queries are safety queries providedor intended for enhancing the safety of the systems—and thusadvantageously the safety of the patient as well.

Queries concerning the functional coupling and/or the usability of thefunctional means at or on or with the treatment apparatus includequeries about a correct fit of the functional means in the treatmentapparatus, the correctness of an arrangement of components relative toeach other, a correct signal coupling and/or electric connection betweentwo or more components, a correct closure or opening state “closed” or“open” (such as, for example, in the case of tubings or clamps orvalves) of the components to be used, in particular before starting thetreatment, and further on.

If the result of the comparison mentioned above is negative, the methodaccording to the invention in certain embodiments comprises alertingand/or reporting the deviation between the selected treatment option andthe identified function. This may result may arise if the selectedtreatment option and the identified function do not conform to and/orare not compatible with each other.

Appropriate alarm and/or reporting devices or means provided for this orother purposes, in particular purposes related to or associated with thetreatment, may be provided respectively. Examples include one (or more)devices generating acoustic and/or visual alerts or alarms and/or, forexample, devices reporting or displaying the alarm or an error or faultor failure or a problem, such as displays, and the like.

The functional means according to the invention is provided or intendedfor being functionally coupled to a treatment apparatus. It is suitedand provided or intended and/or designed or embodied for being used forperforming at least one specific or defined function, in particular inthe course of or in association with a medical treatment and/or amedical treatment option.

In certain embodiments, the functional means is designed or embodied forbeing used in or during an extracorporeal blood treatment.

In certain embodiments, the functional means according to the inventioncomprises or consists of at least one extracorporeal blood tubing set.

In some embodiments according to the invention, the functional meansaccording to the invention comprises or consists of an extracorporealblood tubing set arranged in a tray or an organizer.

In further embodiments, the medical technical functional means isdesigned or embodied as a cassette, e.g. as a disposable cassette.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, an “organizer” refersto a device or means provided or intended for receiving and/or handlingthe medical technical functional means, for example, the extracorporealblood tubing set, in a more compact way. The extracorporeal blood tubingset and the organizer may build or make up a cassette in a commonarrangement or may be referred to as a cassette. Examples of appropriateorganizers can be derived from embodiments of the German patentapplication DE 10 2008 026 915.8 having the title “Faltbare Organizerfür Blutschlauchelemente” (“Foldable organizers for blood tubingelements”) of the present applicant, the respective disclosure of whichis herewith fully incorporated by way of reference.

As used herein, an extracorporeal blood tubing set may be anextracorporeal blood tubing set that is, for example, used in a bloodtreatment such as a hemodialysis, a hemofiltration, a hemodiafiltration,or the like. It may comprise all components or elements or devices ormeans desired and/or required for such (or another (blood)) treatmentpurpose or may be connected with respective components or elements ordevices or means. Non-limiting and merely exemplary examples includelines, chambers, tubings, clamps, sensors such as pressure sensors orair bubble detectors, addition devices or means, valves, throttle valvesor restrictors, devices or means regulating the flow of fluids such as,for example, blood and/or dialysate and/or substituate, and the like.

In certain embodiments, the functional means comprises at least onecalcium addition site and at least one citrate addition site. Thecalcium and the citrate addition sites are provided or intended for theaddition of citrate and calcium solutions or other anticoagulants actingin accordance with the same or a similar active principle into thefunctional means or into the extracorporeal blood tubing set.

In certain further embodiments, the functional means furthermorecomprises at least one heparin addition site. The heparin addition siteis provided or intended for the addition of heparin or otheranticoagulants acting in accordance with the same or a similar activeprinciple into the functional means or into the extracorporeal bloodtubing set.

In addition to heparin and/or calcium and citrate as anticoagulants,further anticoagulants or substances influencing the blood to be treatedin the course of or in association with the treatment may be added.Appropriate devices or means may be provided accordingly.

The addition of heparin or calcium and citrate may be effected by usingpumps. Respective pumps suited and/or provided therefor are provided incertain embodiments according to the invention.

The medical device according to the invention is suited and provided orintended and/or designed or embodied for performing one or more steps ofa medical treatment and/or one or more treatment options in the courseof or in association with a medical treatment.

The medical device may be functionally coupleable or coupled with amedical technical functional means or may be provided herefor.

In certain embodiments, the treatment apparatus comprises at least oneidentification means or device that is suited, provided or intendedand/or configured for identifying and/or assigning a function associatedwith and/or assigned to the functional means by means of thespecification feature that has been detected by means of the detectiondevice.

As stated above, in certain embodiments of the present invention,information about a function or suitability of the functional meansassociated or related with a specific specification feature may bestored or will be stored in the treatment apparatus or in a storagemedium thereof.

In certain embodiments, the treatment apparatus further comprises atleast one comparison means or device. The comparison device is suited,provided or intended and/or configured for comparing a treatment optionthat has been selected at the medical device with the function orsuitability of the medical technical functional means that has beenidentified by means of the specification feature.

In some embodiments, the treatment apparatus further comprises at leastone querying device suited, provided or intended and/or configured forperforming defined and/or predetermined queries with respect to thecorrect functional coupling and/or the usability of the functional meansin the planned treatment and/or in association with the selectedtreatment option, or for prompting the performance thereof. Thosequeries may particularly be safety queries, especially queriespredetermined by the manufacturer or queries predetermined orrecommended on a legal basis or according to a standard.

In further certain embodiments, the treatment apparatus furthercomprises at least one alerting means or device and/or one reportingmeans or device that is provided or intended for alerting or reportingin case of a non-compatibility of the specification feature or of thefunction of the functional means or of the functional means itself andof the treatment apparatus or of the selected treatment option. This mayparticularly be reasonable and/or desired and/or required in cases inwhich a functional means that does not conform to the selected treatmentoption has been chosen and was erroneously connected with the treatmentapparatus. An alert—in particular an alert that is released or issued indue time before functionally coupling the functional means to thetreatment apparatus or even more before starting the treatment—may, incertain embodiments, advantageously contribute to avoiding an unplanneduse of the functional means and to thus advantageously increase thepatient's safety.

Further alerts and/or reports relating to other situations associatedwith a treatment may be provided as well as the respective devices ormeans.

The control unit according to the invention comprises at least onedevice or means or is functionally coupled to and/or connected in signaltransmission with a device or means selected from a group comprising orconsisting of a detection device, an identification means, a comparisonmeans, a querying device, an alert means and a reporting means.

Certain embodiments according to the invention comprise one or more ofthe following advantages.

The present invention provides a method for automatically querying aspecification feature of a functional means.

One advantage of the present invention consists of enabling the controlof the selection of a medical technical functional means for a specifictreatment in addition to the control by the user. Thus, the risk of theresults of an incorrect or faulty selection of the functional means tobe used by a human being may advantageously be minimized or evenexcluded.

In certain embodiments, the method according to the invention mayadvantageously be used during assembling an acute dialysis machine witha disposable blood tubing set that is, for example, provided on anorganizer: Such acute dialysis machines that are often able to perform aplurality of several or different functions correspondingly comprisingdifferent parameters, treatment procedures, and the like, are mainlyoften used in emergency cases. For this use, they should be ofparticular easy and/or clear use or handling. The present inventionprovides an advantageously simple and reliable method for controlling ormonitoring the correct assembling of the blood treatment apparatus withthe actually required medical technical functional means.

Thus, according to the invention, it may advantageously be possible toguarantee a high degree of certainty that the functional means is usedcorrectly, also when using a functional means that is designed orembodied in a particular compact way and/or comprises a lot of differentfunctions or a functional means having a high level of integrationespecially in emergency cases. In turn, this ensures the patient'ssafety.

In certain embodiments, the present invention advantageously provides asimple and reliable method for enabling a safety-relevant automaticdifferentiation of functional means, the accidental mix-up of which maybe associated with significant risks with respect to the subsequenttreatment. For example, in the course of or in association with a bloodtreatment, two (or even many more) basic types of cassettes ororganizers may be used that differ in the tubing set elements providedfor the planned anticoagulation method. Usually, those functional meanscomprise specific branch lines for the respective anticoagulant (e.g.heparin or citrate/calcium) or addition sites designed or embodiedotherwise requiring particular consideration before starting thetreatment. According to the invention, it is advantageously possible toavoid an accidental use of an inadequate blood tubing set when queryingthe specification feature as taught by the present invention.

After identifying the specification feature of the functional means,safety aspects specific for the concrete functional means mayadvantageously reliably be queried.

Thus, in certain embodiments, it is, by means of the present inventionadvantageously possible to detect the presence of specific lines of ablood tubing set according to their function by means of thespecification feature. If one is aware of the presence thereof, a, forexample, accidental non-closure thereof that would, however, perhaps bemandatorily required, can be admonished by means of the safety query andcan thus be avoided.

When assembling a dialysis machine it may thus particularly be importantto lock any branch lines either by means of caps or, e.g. to connectthem to respective solution bags so that the ends thereof are securedfrom the environment. If not, there would be the risk of sucking inambient air into the extracorporeal blood circuit via branch lines,supply clamps, or the like, that accidentally remain open or that bloodcould disperse from the extracorporeal blood circuit into theenvironment. Such a risk could particularly exist with blood tubing setscomprising citrate-calcium addition sites as the calcium line is, forexample, arranged at the blood pump's suction side such that air couldbe sucked in from the environment via an “open” end of the line. Even inthe venous line, negative pressure may arise due to the action of theheart with respect to the environment such that, for example, air couldbe sucked in from the environment via an “open” calcium branch linelocated there.

By means of the method according to the invention, it may, in certainembodiments, advantageously be possible to avoid an incorrect connectionand/or use of a functional means: Basically, it is possible toaccidentally use blood tubing sets comprising calcium and citrate linesfor an anticoagulation method only operating with a heparinanticoagulation. Calcium and citrate lines that are, however, notpresent in a heparin tubing set would, however, accidentally unnoticedlyremain “open” in case of accidentally inserting a cassette comprisingcalcium and citrate addition sites when using the treatment optioncomprising a heparin addition as the machine control would not expectany calcium and citrate lines for the selected treatment option “heparinaddition” and would thus not perform any safety queries with respect toa treatment option comprising heparin addition. Due to the function ofthe functional means identified by means of the specification feature,it is, however, according to the invention advantageously possible toprevent such a mistake in advance. Thus, a risk for the patient and/or arisk of contaminating the environment are advantageously prevented.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, a color label mayadvantageously be used for identifying or marking the functional meansin a particular cost-effective way.

In addition to the possibility of being able to use cost-effective RGBsensors, by using a color label, it may further advantageously bepossible to be able of determining with just one look at the color if anappropriate organizer or blood tubing (or an appropriate functionalmeans in general) has been selected. In this way, there is in certainembodiments advantageously provided a further chance of control by theuser.

In certain embodiments, coloring or otherwise marking or labeling thepackage and/or the card of a functional means and being adapted to thecoloring or marking of the functional means may further advantageouslycontribute to a correct selection of the functional means in an easyway.

Identifying the specification feature using color differentiationmethods may comprise several advantages as compared to a mere intensitymeasurement. Those advantages include a higher safety againstinterfering light, an improved detection or identification of breakdownsor malfunctions, more functionalities in form of differing a pluralityof different functional means (that may be embodied or designed in formof disposables), and the like. Additionally, the construction may beless complex and/or may be operated more stable.

In the following, the present invention will be described merelyexemplarily with respect to the figures. In the figures, identicalreference numerals refer to same or identical elements. The arrows orarrowheads each indicate the flow direction of the respective fluids.

FIG. 1 shows a flow chart of a method according to the invention forquerying a specification feature by means of a treatment apparatus or bymeans of a device or means being arranged in signal transmissiontherewith.

At first, a medical treatment option is selected on a medical device(step S1).

A medical technical functional means in, at or on which thespecification feature is arranged is contacted and/or connected with themedical device or a detection device (step S2). Thereby, it is notdecisive if step S1 is performed before, during or after the performanceof steps S2, S3, S4 or S5. Step S1 may even be performed after theperformance of step S6, however, in a particular case, this may involveunnecessary effort.

The specification feature is detected by means of the medical device ora detection device being external thereto (step S3).

Subsequently, a function associated with the specification feature isidentified and/or assigned thereto (step S4).

Now, the treatment option that has been selected in step S1 on themedical device is compared with the function that has been identified instep S4 by means of the specification feature of the medical technicalfunctional means (step S5).

If the treatment option that has been selected in step S1 at the medicaldevice and the function that has been identified in step S4 by means ofthe specification feature of the medical technical functional meansconform to each other or are compatible with each other (“J” for YES),the medical technical functional means and the medical device will befunctionally coupled (step S6). This coupling may correspond to a,particularly final, assembling of the treatment apparatus with thefunctional means.

Then, defined queries concerning the correct functional coupling of themedical technical functional means for the purpose of the plannedmedical treatment or queries concerning safety aspects will be started(step S7).

If the treatment option having been selected on the medical device andthe function having been identified by means of the specificationfeature of the medical technical functional means do not conform to eachother or are not compatible with each other (“N” for NO), an alertand/or report about a deviation between the selected treatment optionand the identified function or suitability of the functional meansdiffering therefrom is issued (step S8).

FIG. 2 schematically shows a signal transmission connection that isgenerated between a treatment apparatus 100 according to the invention,a detection device 200 and a functional means 300.

The treatment apparatus 100, e.g. an acute dialysis machine, comprises acontrol unit 1 (hardware of the machine).

As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 1 functions as an interface betweenthe treatment apparatus 100 and the detection device 200.

Via control unit 1, control signals of the software of the treatmentapparatus 100 are sent to the detection device 200 (signal “A1”). Asshown in FIG. 2, the detection device 200 is supplied with power bymeans of the control unit 1 of the treatment apparatus (signal “A2”).

For detecting the specification feature of the functional means 300, thedetection device 200 emits a signal E1. The information subsequentlyemitted or issued by the functional means 300 is returned as signal E2to the detection device 200 and then as signal “A3” to the control unit1 of the treatment apparatus 100.

FIG. 3 perspectively shows components of a detection device 200.

In FIG. 3, the detection device 200 is exemplified as a sensor, e.g. asa color sensor.

The detection device 200 comprises a housing 3.

A front panel 5 can be integrated into the housing 3. The housing 3 andthe front panel 5 can be covered by means of a cover 7.

As can be seen from the schematic arrangement of the components in FIG.3, a circuit board 9, e.g. comprising a LED (light-emitting diode)and/or a light-frequency converter, is arranged in the assembled stateof the detection device 200.

The detection device 200 is screwed together with the treatmentapparatus (not shown in FIG. 3), e.g. with a machine front of thetreatment apparatus, by means of fastening bolts 11.

FIG. 4 shows a front view of an exemplary specification feature 400.

The specification feature 400 is attached to the functional means suchas an organizer or a “tray” by means of, for example, adhesive bonding.

As shown in FIG. 4, in this embodiment, sufficient sticking orattachment of the specification feature 400 (e.g. a color label) at afunctional means (not shown in FIG. 4) can be assured by a width of theadhesive surface for all sides of exemplarily 3 mm. When considering thepositional tolerance of the tray of, for example, ±5 mm, there stillremains a sufficiently large readable area of the specification feature,as is exemplarily shown in FIG. 4.

The maximum dimensions of a specification feature 400 at a functionalmeans may depend on several factors, for example, on the position of thedetection device on the treatment apparatus, and the like. In FIG. 4,the maximum dimensions are 50 mm×35 mm.

Color labels on organizers, cassettes, or the like may be produced indifferent ways, wherein possible color changes resulting fromsterilization and/or age are preferably minimized or anticipated.Examples of attaching a specification feature 400 in, at or on afunctional means include printing, covering, dying, staining, applying,e.g. engaging or snapping or clipping a color tag, etc.

FIG. 5A shows a detection device 200 arranged on a treatment apparatus100 according to the invention, the detection device 200 is exemplarilydesigned as a sensor. To the right of the arrangement, the detectiondevice 200 is shown enlarged.

FIG. 5B shows a treatment apparatus according to the invention 100 atwhich a functional means 300 according to the invention is arranged.

As shown in FIG. 5B, the functional means 300 comprises a tray or anorganizer 13. In some embodiments, the organizer advantageouslycontributes to positioning the individual components, e.g. lines,tubings, clamps, etc., correctly relative to the treatment apparatus100.

The arrangement of single components such as of an extracorporeal bloodtubing set or a tubing set in a tray or organizer 13 may, in certainembodiments, advantageously facilitate the handling of theextracorporeal blood tubing set.

At or on the organizer 13, e.g. on the organizer's 13 backside, there isarranged a specification feature 400, e.g. a color label.

By means of its concrete design or embodiment, the specification feature400 is positioned on the organizer 13 in front of the detection device200 in conformity with the arrangement of the detection device relativeto the treatment apparatus in a manner suited for the purpose ofdetection.

In order to avoid variations of the distance between the specificationfeature 400 and the detection device (not seen in FIG. 5B, as thespecification feature 400 covers it) resulting from different organizerspossibly to be used with the blood treatment apparatus, distance rings15 are provided.

The distance rings 15 may, for example, have a thickness of 0.8 mm each.

The organizer 13 or the “tray” assembled with a blood tubing set—alsoreferred to as a cassette—is, in some embodiments, provided or intendedfor being used in a sterilely form.

The organizer 13 can be assembled with different blood tubing sets, forexample, with tubing set elements for different anticoagulation methods,e.g. heparin anticoagulation and/or citrate/calcium anticoagulation(“CiCa”).

In certain embodiments, such anticoagulation methods require specificbranch lines at the blood tubing set opening at specific sites into theextracorporeal blood circuit such that, during the treatment,anticoagulants may be added to the blood. In case of blood tubing setsfor the CiCa anticoagulation, a heparin anticoagulation may be providedadditionally such that, in some embodiments, branch lines for bothanticoagulation methods are provided.

If, after predetermining a selected treatment option comprisingcitrate-calcium anticoagulation or heparin anticoagulation, neither ayellow label nor a blue label that are expected here exemplarily areidentified, an alarm or error message (“improper cassette or organizer”or “problem with color detection of the cassette or the organizer”, orsomething similar) may be issued. In this way, the performance of thetreatment using an improper organizer/cassette may be avoided.

The blood treatment apparatus automatically recognizes or identifies aregular case in which, on the one hand, a treatment option comprisingcitrate-calcium anticoagulation has been pre-selected by means of themachine control and then an, e.g. yellow label has been detected.Subsequently, the machine control automatically performs successivespecific safety queries—optionally in combination with correspondingsensors arranged at the insertion sites of the coupling surface. Thus,it is, e.g. ensured that the calcium and citrate lines present arereally inserted properly or are secured.

The tubing system that is provided for heparin treatment lacks thosecomponents and thus, the said components are not checked for properinsertion by means of the machine control.

If, after predetermining a treatment option comprising citrate-calciumanticoagulation, the expected yellow label is not identified but, e.g. ablue label (blue for heparin) is identified, thus an alarm or errormessage (“improper cassette/organizer” or something else) and/or analert may be issued and the performance of the treatment using theimproper cassette/the improper organizer may be avoided.

If, after predetermining a treatment option comprising heparinanticoagulation, the expected, e.g. blue label is not identified but,e.g. a yellow label (for citrate-calcium) is identified, thus an alarmor error message (“improper cassette/organizer”, “performance of thetreatment is not allowed” or something else) may be issued and theperformance of the treatment using the improper cassette/the improperorganizer may be avoided.

This may be of particular relevance as, due to the predetermination ofthe heparin anticoagulation, a usual machine control checks a bloodtubing set lacking branch lines for a citrate-calcium anticoagulationand thus does not provide any corresponding safety queries for securingpotentially open citrate and/or calcium lines.

If, in a further proper case, after having selected a treatment optioncomprising heparin anticoagulation, the blood treatment machineidentifies a blood tubing set comprising, e.g. a blue label, i.e. ablood tubing set, organizer or a cassette for heparin anticoagulationalone and without comprising any citrate and calcium lines has beeninserted, the machine control, optionally in combination withcorresponding sensors at the insertion site of the coupling surface,therefore automatically performs specific safety queries, whereby it mayadvantageously be ensured that all components present have been insertedproperly or are secured properly. Due to the coloring, the control actson the assumption of a cassette not comprising any branch lines for acitrate-calcium anticoagulation and thus does not provide anycorresponding safety queries for securing open citrate and calciumlines.

If the identified cassette fits to or conforms to the pre-selectedtreatment option, the machine control, optionally in combination withcorresponding sensors at the insertion sites, performs specific safetyqueries, whereby it is ensured that all relevant lines are queried andsecured. Otherwise, an alarm or error message and/or an alert (“impropercassette/organizer” or something else) may be issued and/or theperformance of the treatment using the improper cassette that hasalready been inserted may be avoided.

In certain embodiments, it is possible and provided or intended that,even if a tubing system has been identified by the label that does notconform to the selected treatment option, a citrate-calcium treatment isallowed by the treatment apparatus as it is hereby checked for correctinsertion of the (open) citrate and calcium lines. The danger that wouldarise from these tubing parts can thus be averted.

FIG. 6 shows a basic principle of the design and the functionality of anexemplary detection device 200. In FIG. 6, the detection device 200 isembodied as a color sensor.

The detection device 200, that is shown in the center of FIG. 6,comprises a light-frequency converter 17 and a RGB LED (red-green-bluelight-emitting diode) 19 inside its housing 3.

The light-frequency converter 17 and the RGB LED are arranged on acircuit board 9 of the detection device 200.

The detection device 200 or its housing 3 are arranged on a machinesurface of the treatment apparatus 100. As shown in FIG. 6, the housing3 of the detection device 200 may be integrated into a housing 21 of thetreatment apparatus 100.

The front panel 5 of the detection device 200 is in the example of FIG.6 arranged in a manner flush to the adjacent machine surface of thetreatment apparatus 100 whereby advantageously facilitating the cleaningprocess; however, front panels 5 that are recessed or protrude from themachine surface may be provided as well.

On the right hand side of FIG. 6, a functional means 300 is shown thatis positioned at or—depending on its state of use—in front of thetreatment apparatus 100.

The control unit 1 of the treatment apparatus 100 comprises a softwarecomponent 1 a and a hardware component 1 b.

For detecting the specification feature 400 by means of the treatmentapparatus 100 or the detection device 200 thereof, a control signal A1is sent from the control unit 1 to the detection device 200. Thedetection device 200 detects the specification feature 400 by means oflight reflection methods and sends the information gained as frequencyA3 back to the control unit 1.

A measurement method for detecting the specification feature 400 may, incertain embodiments according to the invention, be performed in thefollowing way by means of using a color sensor (RGB sensor) as thedetection device 200 and a color label as the specification feature 400.

For calibrating the detection device 200, if applicable in form of acalibration already done by the manufacturer, each RGB LED (red R, greenG, blue B) may be switched on by gating or fading out extraneous lightand the corresponding output frequency of the sensor may be measured.The frequency value obtained in this way may reflect the basic frequencyof the sensor superimposing the actual measurement value in eachmeasurement process (offset).

First, at the beginning of the measurement process, a frequencymeasurement is performed with the LED being switched off (˜50 ms). Then,the red LED is switched on and about 0.5 s is waited. Before resuming ameasurement value as a variable, a delay of about 150 ms is waited suchthat LED and receiver (specification feature) are present in a definedstate. Now, frequency is measured (˜50 ms). Then, the red LED isswitched off, the green LED is switched on and is waited again (˜0.5 s).Frequency is measured (˜50 ms). After switching off the green LED, theblue LED is switched on and for example, approximately for another 0.5 sis waited again. Frequency is measured (˜50 ms). The blue LED isswitched off. Then, for about 0.5 s is waited. Frequency is measured(˜50 ms). Another value for extraneous light is recorded again.

For evaluating the measurement, at first the first and the lastfrequency measurements without LED are compared to each other (in caseof a deviation between these two values, the measurement process wouldbe repeated). The higher value for extraneous light and the lower valuefor extraneous light should not differ from each other by more than 20%.

Subsequently, the resulting frequencies are calculated. For each color,the offset determined during the manufacturer's calibration process andthe frequency value of the first measurement without LED are subtractedfrom the measurement value.

The factors for the color comparison are calculated by building thefactor for green from red/green and for blue from red/blue with respectto the offset values. The factor for red is 1.

For the color comparison, the frequencies are multiplied by therespective factors. The identification of the color is done by comparingquotients of color intensities (R, G, B) with each other withinpredetermined tolerance intervals.

Red/green, red/blue and green/blue ratios are calculated.

Then, a query is started if the ratios are greater than or less than 1.By comparing with predetermined values, information about the functionalmeans may be gained.

If, for example, a yellow label (e.g. for citrate-calcium) isidentified, the red/green ratio is, for example, >2.1. A result of thevariable may be true here. At the same time, the red/blue ratio is >1.5.The result of the variable may be true again. Thus the color yellow isidentified or recognized.

If a method comprising the addition of citrate-calcium has been selectedas the treatment option, congruence between the selected treatmentoption and the function or suitability of the functional means isdetermined.

If, however, a method comprising the addition of heparin has beenselected as the treatment option, there is no congruence or conformitybetween the selected treatment option and the function of the functionalmeans. An alert should be issued.

If the red/green ratio is, for example, ≦2.1, a blue label (e.g. forheparin) is identified. A result of the variable may be true here. Atthe same time, the red/blue ratio is, for example, ≦1. The result of thevariable may be true again. Thus, the color blue is identified.

If a method comprising the addition of heparin has been selected as thetreatment option, congruence between the selected treatment option andthe function or suitability of the functional means is determined.

If, however, a method comprising the addition of citrate and calcium hasbeen selected as the treatment option, there is no congruence orconformity between the selected treatment option and the function of thefunctional means. An alert should be issued in this case again.

If, even before starting the color identification, an alarm or errormessage is issued, a reason herefor could be that the functional meanshad not been positioned at the treatment apparatus in the right way suchthat the specification feature cannot be detected by means of thedetection device. Optionally, failure notice comprises a correspondingindication.

FIG. 7 schematically shows a configuration of a functional means 300 forperforming a blood treatment comprising the addition of citrate atfirst—or upstream—and later on calcium (relative to a flow of a concreteerythrocyte moved extracorporeally)—or more downstream.

Anticoagulation lines for calcium and citrate are indicated on themachine-sided coupling surface of the functional means 300 at a definedposition by means of a specification feature, e.g. in form of a yellowcolor label such as a sticker. This is, in certain embodiments,independent from providing a heparin line additionally.

The functional means 300 represents an extracorporeal blood circuit orblood tubing set for a blood treatment of a patient, e.g. ahemofiltration.

On the right side of FIG. 7, a dialysate circuit 500 comprising adialyzer 501 and a source 503 for filtrate or dialysate is shown.

The part indicated by “600” represents the blood circuit. The bloodcircuit 600 is substantially or completely part of the functional means300.

The functional means 300 shown in FIG. 7 schematically represents anextracorporeal blood tubing set provided for a dialysis(CVV-HD=continuous venous to venous hemodialysis) comprisingcitrate-calcium tubing elements 23. The citrate-calcium tubing elements23 comprise a first supply line 231 for supplying calcium from a calciumsource 232 by means of a pump P5 as well as a second supply line 233differing therefrom for supplying citrate from a citrate source 234 bymeans of a pump P6.

The supply lines 231 or 233 open into the extracorporeal blood tubingset at the connection sites denoted by {circle around (2)} or {circlearound (3)}, each representing branch lines of the extracorporeal bloodtubing set having open connection sites (open as in case of a calciumand citrate addition, introduction of calcium or citrate should be doneat the corresponding position into the extracorporeal blood tubing set).

As shown in FIG. 7, calcium addition is done behind or downstream of thedialyzer 501. If the connection site {circle around (2)} shouldaccidentally remain open, there would be the risk of dissipatingextracorporeally treated blood at the connection site {circle around(2)} from the extracorporeal blood tubing set into the environment.

As shown in FIG. 7, citrate addition is done in front of or upstream ofthe dialyzer 501. If the connection site {circle around (3)} shouldaccidentally remain open, there would thus be the risk of sucking in airinto the extracorporeal blood tubing set by means of the blood pump P1and thus to optionally introduce air into the patient connected with theextracorporeal blood tubing set.

In some citrate-calcium cassettes or tubing sets, a heparin additionsite is provided additionally; in other citrate-calcium cassettes ortubing sets, it is not.

A heparin addition site H is in FIG. 7 indicated as connection site{circle around (1)}. In a cassette comprising citrate and calciumaddition, the connection site {circle around (1)} is, for example,secured by means of a non-return valve. Thus, a potential risk due to anopen connection site {circle around (1)} may advantageously be excluded.

As compared to, for example, a heparin tubing set, as stated, a citrateand calcium tubing set additionally comprises open connection sites{circle around (2)} and {circle around (3)} via which blood could escapeand air could enter if they were not closed accidentally. Therefore,they have to be closed reliably.

The terms p(art) or PS1, p(PHF) or PS2, p(ven) or PS3 refer to pressuresensors for detecting the blood pressure at the respective sites withinthe extracorporeal blood tubing set. Further, the terms p(filt) or PS4refer to pressure sensors for detecting the dialysate pressure at therespective sites within the extracorporeal blood tubing set.

FIG. 8 schematically shows a configuration of a functional means 300 forperforming a blood treatment comprising heparin addition.

In certain embodiments, cassettes provided for heparin anticoagulationalone comprise, for example, a blue color label, e.g. a blue sticker(“heparin=blue”) for differentiating the cassette from a cassettecomprising citrate and calcium addition.

In this way, nursing staff may advantageously already optically orvisually get a first hint about the suitability of the respectivecassette for specific treatment options.

The arrangement of the functional means 300 in FIG. 8 substantiallycorresponds to the one shown in FIG. 7, however, no citrate and calciumtubing element is present. The treatment apparatus identifying a bluecolor label expects a set without any open citrate and calciumconnection site and would not check such sites.

In the following FIGS. 9 to 13, the references “in” and “out” in thefigures refer to inflow (“in”) or outflow (“out”) of the respectivefluid into the functional means or out of the functional means.

FIG. 9 schematically shows a tubing set comprising a heparin additionsite.

The heparin tubing set arranged on an organizer 13 and identified bymeans of a specification feature 400, e.g. a blue color label, comprisesa supply line 25in and 25out for blood extending from the patient to thefilter, e.g. a dialysis filter. The tubing set further comprises areturn line 27in and 27out for blood extending from the filter (notshown in FIG. 9) to the patient (not shown in FIG. 9). Furthermore, afiltrate line referred to as 29in and 29out is provided.

A dialysate line 31in and 31out for dialysate or dialysis fluidextending from a solution bag (not shown in FIG. 9) to the filter or aconnector is also provided. Furthermore, a substituate line 33in and33out for transporting substitution fluid or substituate from a solutionbag (not shown in FIG. 9) to the connector in the supply line 25 or thereturn line 29 is provided.

A heparin addition site 35 is provided for adding heparin upstream thefilter into the blood tubing line 25out and downstream the blood pump251.

In FIG. 9, furthermore a filtrate pump 291, a dialysate pump 311 and asubstituate pump 331 are represented.

FIG. 10 schematically shows a flow chart of an arrangement forperforming a blood treatment comprising the addition of heparin by usinga heparin tubing set such as specified in FIG. 9.

FIG. 10 shows the lines of the extracorporeal blood circuit 600 and ofthe dialysate circuit 500. Substituate liquid is supplied from a source44 for substituate liquid.

FIG. 11 schematically shows a tubing set for a treatment comprisingcitrate-calcium addition.

The citrate-calcium tubing set arranged on an organizer 13 andidentified by means of a specification feature 400, e.g. a yellow colorlabel, comprises a calcium line 231 a for adding calcium merging into afurther segment 231 b and opening into the venous return line 27out in acalcium addition site 231 c for the addition of calcium.

Moreover, the citrate-calcium tubing set comprises a connector 233in forthe citrate-calcium addition. Citrate solution is introduced via therespective line into the supply line 25in coming from the patient (i.e.into the arterial blood line) at the site, e.g. designated as 233out.The citrate-calcium tubing set furthermore comprises a heparin additionsite 35.

FIG. 12 schematically shows a flow chart of an arrangement forperforming a blood treatment comprising the addition of citrate as wellas calcium by using a citrate-calcium tubing set as specified in FIG.11.

FIG. 12 shows lines of the extracorporeal blood circuit 600 and of thedialysate circuit 500. Calcium is supplied from a calcium source 232 andcitrate is supplied from a citrate source 234.

FIG. 13 schematically shows a supply line 800 substantiallycorresponding to the supply line 25 as, e.g. shown in FIG. 9, which issuited for a blood treatment using heparin addition.

The supply line 800 of FIG. 13 comprises a patient connector comprisinga cap 801, a tubing clamp 803, an infusion port 805, a pressuremeasurement site 807 arranged in the supply line 800, a pump segment 809for a roller pump, a connector 811 comprising a non-return valve forsubstitution liquid, a pressure measurement site 813 for a pre-filterpressure, a connector line 815 for a heparin syringe and a filterconnector 817 comprising a cap.

FIG. 14 schematically shows a supply line 900 substantiallycorresponding to the supply line 25 such as, e.g. shown in FIG. 11,which is suited for a blood treatment comprising the addition of bothheparin and citrate.

As shown in FIG. 14, the supply line 900 comprising the citrate supplyline 233in and 233out comprises a patient connector 901 comprising acap, a tubing clamp 903, an infusion port 905, a pressure measurementsite 907 arranged in the supply line 900, a pump segment 909 for aroller pump, a connector 911 comprising a non-return valve forsubstitution liquid, a pressure measurement site 913 for a pre-filterpressure, a connector line 915 for a heparin syringe, a filter connector917 comprising a cap and a citrate supply line 919 comprising a pumpsegment and a drip chamber.

FIG. 15 schematically shows a return line 1100 substantiallycorresponding to the return line 27 as, e.g. shown in FIG. 11, which issuited for a blood treatment comprising calcium addition.

As shown in FIG. 15, the return line 1100 comprises a patient connector1101 comprising a bag, a tubing clamp 1103, a calcium supply line 1105comprising a pump segment and a drip chamber, a venous bubble trap 1107,a pressure measurement line 1109 for the return pressure, a connector1111 comprising a non-return valve for substitution liquid, a samplingsite 1113 and/or an injection site as well as a filter connector 1115comprising a cap.

FIG. 16A schematically shows a first cassette type comprising dripchambers 2315 and 2335 for calcium and citrate solutions as well aslines 231 and 233 for the addition of calcium and citrate and is thusdesigned or embodied as a citrate-calcium tubing set. The cassette ofFIG. 16A is also suited or apt for heparin addition.

FIG. 16B schematically shows a second cassette type that does notcomprise any components for citrate or calcium addition. The cassette orfunctional means 300 of FIG. 16B is solely suited for heparin addition.

The specification features 400 of the two functional means thereforediffer (e.g. yellow, if a citrate-calcium tubing set is present, seeFIG. 16A, and blue, if no citrate-calcium tubing set is present, seeFIG. 16B), what is herein indicated by means of the different shading ofthe specification features.

FIG. 17 schematically shows a machine front 1200 of a treatmentapparatus according to the invention.

The machine front 1200 comprises a detection device 200 for detectingthe specification feature of a functional means (both not shown in FIG.17).

As shown in FIG. 17, the machine front 1200 of the treatment apparatuscomprises a pressure measurement unit 1201, a pump 1203, a holder 1205for a venous bubble trap, an air bubble detector 1207, e.g. in form ofan optical detector, a tubing clamp 1209, a blood leakage sensor 1211, aholder 1213 comprising a control for a calcium drip chamber as well as acalcium pump 1215 comprising an insertion switch, a holder 1217comprising a control for a citrate drip chamber as well as a citratepump 1219 comprising an insertion switch.

FIG. 18 schematically shows a possibility of positioning a functionalmeans 300 at the treatment apparatus 100.

For attaching or fixing the functional means 300 at the treatmentapparatus 100, mounting pins 47 are provided at the treatment apparatus'100 machine front 1200.

The two block arrows B indicate the direction of attaching or fixing thefunctional means 300 at the treatment apparatus 100.

In order to prepare or assemble the treatment apparatus 100 with thefunctional means 300, the tubing system of the functional means 300 isinserted into the corresponding segments of the treatment apparatus 100and/or is connected therewith.

When assembling an acute dialysis machine with a cassette, for example,different elements of the blood tubing set are “inserted” intorespective reception elements (e.g. clamps, roller pumps, etc.) at themachine front 1200 by the user.

According to the treatment option that has been pre-selected by means ofthe machine control, according to the invention, machine control(control unit)—and optionally a corresponding sensor system at thedialysis machine—stepwise controls if all components are insertedproperly as regards the pre-selected treatment option. Thereby, a set ofautomatic safety queries is related or associated with the pre-selectedtreatment option and the related detected cassette comprising itsspecific elements.

FIG. 19 schematically shows the insertion of pump segments, pump segment909 for citrate supply and pump segment 49 for calcium supply, of afunctional means 300 at the treatment apparatus 100.

FIG. 20 schematically shows the insertion of drip chambers of afunctional means 300 comprising a citrate-calcium addition at thetreatment apparatus 100.

A citrate drip chamber 51 of the functional means 300 is inserted intothe holder 1217 for the citrate drip chamber of the treatment apparatus100; a calcium drip chamber 53 of the functional means 300 is insertedinto the holder 1213 for the calcium drip chamber at the treatmentapparatus 100. The two block arrows B in turn indicate the direction ofattaching or fixing the functional means 300 at the treatment apparatus100.

FIG. 21 schematically shows a detection of the functional means 300 orof its specification feature 400 by means of the treatment apparatus 100according to the invention or of the detection device 200 thereof.

The block arrow P illustrates the positioning of the functional means300 or of the specification feature 400 before or relative to thetreatment apparatus 100 or the detection device 200 thereof.

For example, when arranging the functional means 300 at the couplingsurface of the treatment apparatus manually, the blood treatmentapparatus automatically identifies by means of the detection device 200,e.g. a color identification sensor (RGB sensor), if a yellow or a bluecolor label (specification feature 400; “yellow”, e.g. for the additionof citrate-calcium; “blue”, e.g. for the addition of heparin) ispresent. Depending on the earlier selection of the treatment option atthe treatment apparatus 100, the control unit differentiates betweendifferent proper cases and possible fault or error situations (seeabove).

As, according to the invention, advantageously different tubing systemscan be differentiated specifically for different types ofanticoagulation of the extracorporeal blood circuit by means of amachine-readable label, it may advantageously be possible to avoid therisk of loss of blood and/or infusion of air resulting from open tubingends and tubing system components not being inserted by means of thespecific safety queries adopted to specific components of the identifiedtubing system.

1. A method for querying a specification feature arranged in, at or on amedical technical functional means, the method comprising the step of:querying the specification feature by means of a medical devicefunctionally coupled to or to be coupled to the medical technicalfunctional means or by means of a device or means connected or beingarranged in signal transmission with the medical device.
 2. The methodaccording to claim 1, wherein querying is performed by means of acontrol unit of the medical device.
 3. The method according to claim 1,wherein the specification feature is designed or embodied as anidentification mark or label, in particular in form of a barcode, a dotmatrix code, a RFID chip or a color label or a mixture or a combinationthereof, and/or comprises at least one of the afore-mentionedidentification marks or labels.
 4. The method according to claim 1,wherein the specification feature is provided or intended for beingfixed or attached to or at the medical technical functional means bymeans of sticking, printing, coating, dying, staining, engaging,snapping or clipping, and the like.
 5. The method according to claim 1,wherein the specification feature is provided or intended for marking oridentifying, an extracorporeal blood tubing set or a defined or specificembodiment or design or suitability of the extracorporeal blood tubingset.
 6. The method according to claim 1, comprising the steps of:selecting a medical treatment option at the medical device; andcontacting and/or connecting a medical technical functional means withthe medical device or a detection device for enabling querying thespecification feature or with the intention thereof.
 7. The methodaccording to claim 1, comprising the further steps of: detecting thespecification feature by means of the medical device or by means of adetection device connected in signal transmission therewith; identifyingand/or assigning a function associated with the specification feature.8. The method according to claim 1, comprising the further step of:comparing the treatment option selected at the medical device with thefunction having been identified by means of the specification feature ofthe medical technical functional means.
 9. The method according to claim1, comprising the further steps of: functionally coupling the medicaltechnical functional means with the medical device, if the treatmentoption and the identified function are conform and/or are compatiblewith each other; and starting defined queries with respect to thecorrect functional coupling and/or suitability of the medical technicalfunctional means in the planned medical treatment.
 10. The methodaccording to claim 9, comprising the further step of: alerting and/orreporting if the selected treatment option and the identified functiondeviate or differ from each other if the treatment option and theidentified function are not conform and/or are not compatible with eachother.
 11. A medical technical functional means, comprising at least onespecification feature marking or identifying at least one medicaltechnical function of the medical technical functional means, whereinthe specification feature is arranged or provided in, at or on themedical technical functional means, and, moreover, is suited and/orconfigured for being queried by means of a medical device functionallycoupled to or to be coupled to the medical technical functional means orby means of a device or means connected or arranged in signaltransmission with the medical device.
 12. The medical technicalfunctional means according to claim 11, designed or embodied for beingused in an extracorporeal blood treatment.
 13. The medical technicalfunctional means according to claim 11, having or consisting of at leastone extracorporeal blood tubing set, in particular an extracorporealblood tubing set arranged in an organizer embodied or designed andprovided or intended therefore.
 14. The medical technical functionalmeans according to claim 11, further comprising at least one citrateaddition site and/or one calcium addition site.
 15. The medicaltechnical functional means according to claim 11, further comprising atleast one heparin addition site.
 16. A medical device, comprising atleast one detection device and/or being arranged in signal transmissiontherewith or being connected in signal transmission therewith, whereinthe detection device is suited, provided or intended and/or configuredfor detecting at least one specification feature marking or identifyingat least one function of the medical technical functional means.
 17. Themedical device according to claim 16, further comprising at least oneidentification means suited, provided or intended and/or configured foridentifying or assigning a function associated with and/or assigned tothe medical technical functional means by means of the specificationfeature having been detected by means of the detection device.
 18. Themedical device according to claim 16, further comprising at least onecomparison means suited, provided or intended and/or configured forcomparing a treatment option selected at the medical device with thefunction of the medical technical functional means having beenidentified by means of the specification feature.
 19. The medical deviceaccording to claim 16, further comprising at least one querying devicesuited, provided or intended and/or configured for performing orprompting the performance of defined and/or predetermined queries withrespect to the correct functional coupling and/or the suitability of themedical technical functional means in a planned medical treatment and/orwith respect to a treatment option selected before, together with orafter querying.
 20. The medical device according to claim 16 designed orembodied as a blood treatment apparatus, in particular as an apparatusfor apheresis or dialysis, in turn particularly for hemodialysis,hemofiltration, hemodiafiltration, for acute dialysis.
 21. The medicaldevice according to claim 16, further comprising at least one alarm oralert means for alerting and/or a report or display means provided orintended for alerting or reporting in case of a non-compatibility of thespecification feature or of the function of the functional means or ofthe functional means itself and of the treatment apparatus or of theselected treatment option.
 22. A control unit, suited and provided orintended and/or designed or embodied and/or configured for performing amethod according to claim
 1. 23. The control unit according to claim 22,comprising at least one detection device and/or an identification meansand/or a comparison means and/or a querying device and/or an alert meansand/or a reporting means or being functionally coupled to at least onesuch means and/or being arranged in signal transmission with at leastone such means.
 24. A digital storage medium, particularly in form of adisc, a CD or a DVD or an EPROM, comprising electronically readablecontrol signals and being configured for interacting with a programmablecomputer system such as to prompt the execution of the technical stepsof a method according to the invention according to claim
 1. 25. Acomputer program product comprising a program code stored on amachine-readable storage medium for prompting the execution of thetechnical steps of the method according to the invention according toclaim 1 when executing the computer program product on a computer.
 26. Acomputer program comprising a program code for prompting the executionof the technical steps of a method according to the invention accordingto claim 1 when executing the computer program on a computer.